Friday, August 30th – Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, has described the 1913 Lockout as a moment of great importance in Irish history, and has encouraged people to participate in tomorrow’s commemoration event being organised by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.

The commemorative event will take place in O’Connell Street, Dublin 2, on Saturday 31st August.

Minister Deenihan commented:

“The 1913 Lockout was a moment of great importance in Irish history. It was also a very significant milestone in that momentous decade (1912 to 1922) which saw Ireland move through the Home Rule crisis and the Lockout to the 1916 Rising and, eventually, the establishment of the Irish State.

“As we progress through this Decade of Centenaries we are committed to marking each milestone in a way that is inclusive, respectful and tolerant. This decade of centenaries presents an opportunity for us to reflect on the experience and achievements of a remarkable era.

“The Lockout was to have far reaching implications for the course of Irish history, and for workers, employers, and the economic and social life of the country.

“I wish to congratulate the Irish Congress of Trade Unions for its work in preparing for the commemorative event tomorrow, and for the comprehensive programme which has been developed to commemorate this pivotal moment in our history. I would encourage members of the public to take part in the ceremony tomorrow.”

Commemoration of the 1913 Lockout includes the recently opened exhibition in the National Library on the Lockout, the launch this week of commemorative stamps, an upcoming exhibition of banners and other memorabilia by the National Museum, and a planned exhibition of the Lockout Tapestry by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht at the upcoming Ploughing Championships.